I’m so looking forward to that listen. She’s so underrated and is one of the few polymaths we have. Every so often I pick up “A Book of Days” which is her year of photography and writing. For September 9th, she honors Leo Tolstoy,” who, in her words, “...imprinted the concept of universal love and pacifism through his towering contribution to literature.” And now I need to pick War and Peace back up.

... and the quotidian chronicles of Patti Smith.

 

​@AdamK12 Very much enjoyed all of your recommendations, but of course Patti Smith jumped out at me. Love her writing, her music, her worldviews, her artistry...everything. She is coming through Seattle in November and I can’t wait

If you have not already, you should find the music she did with Soundwalk Collective. Narrations and poetry over music. I very much enjoy this album which also features Anoushka Shankar, Charlotte Gainsbourg, and others

I’m so looking forward to that listen. She’s so underrated and is one of the few polymaths we have. Every so often I pick up “A Book of Days” which is her year of photography and writing. For September 9th, she honors Leo Tolstoy,” who, in her words, “...imprinted the concept of universal love and pacifism through his towering contribution to literature.” And now I need to pick War and Peace back up.

 

I love this, ​@AdamK12! And you’re right, she is one of the few polymaths still working and producing. She is truly an irreplaceable inspiration, but I am still hopeful more artists like her will emerge. “Book of Days” should be required reading!

Yes! At the end of the month I can create a summary of members' recommendations!

I’m really enjoying everyone’s recommendations and learning more about your reading styles!

Even though I mostly read non-fiction now (especially self-help), my love of reading started with the magical world of Harry Potter! Like millions around the world, those books ignited my imagination — I  pre-ordered each one and locked myself in my room until I’d finished it! I credit Harry Potter for getting me hooked on reading and for opening my mind to new perspectives, ideas, and my love for travel!

This particular book The Road Less Travelled by M. Scott Peck brought a major change in my thinking about life. In contrast to other self-help books, it was a stark contrast, which made me realise the importance of embracing discipline, responsibility, and delayed gratification as the foundations of true growth. It challenged me to confront uncomfortable truths rather than seeking quick fixes, and helped me appreciate that personal fulfillment comes not from avoiding difficulties but from facing them with honesty and perseverance.

I’m going through one of those “life changing moments” right now where I have suffered a loss I was not prepared for, and I am having a really tough time. Chester Bennington’s last album has a song called “One More Light”, and the lyrics are really speaking to me right now. I think it’s really important to keep a sense of perspecctive on how brief our time on this earth is. Time is precious, folks. 

Hey ​@XM_JoshB,

Thank you for sharing this vulnerable moment with us. My condolences for your loss. 

​@XM_JoshB I am sorry to read you are having a tough time. We are thinking about you and are always here to help in any way we can!

It was tough to narrow it down to just one example, but I managed 

During my university years, I got really into Neil Gaiman’s Sandman series. I loved it so much that I actually put off reading the last few issues because I did not want the story to end. Sandman made me realize how powerful graphic novels can be, and that a written story doesn’t need to play out only in your head to spark your imagination.

It’s amazing how stories can stick with you and shape how you see the world, and how storytelling is a vital part of everyone’s life; whether it’s a book, a film, your grandparent’s stories, or even a bit of gossip from your neighbor.

I’m really enjoying everyone’s recommendations and learning more about your reading styles!

Even though I mostly read non-fiction now (especially self-help), my love of reading started with the magical world of Harry Potter! Like millions around the world, those books ignited my imagination — I  pre-ordered each one and locked myself in my room until I’d finished it! I credit Harry Potter for getting me hooked on reading and for opening my mind to new perspectives, ideas, and my love for travel!

 

 

My fear is Magical world and Hogwarts really exists and I am born as Muggle! :)

My perspective on life changed deeply after reading the life stories of the Tirthankar lords—Rishabhdev, Neminath, and Mahavir. 

Their teachings on self-control, non-violence, non-possessiveness, and freedom from greed made me realize that true strength lies in mastering oneself. Their life examples showed me that peace and happiness do not come from external possessions or power, but from inner discipline, compassion, and simplicity.

While I have not mastered these values, I am consciously try practicing them where I can. And try focusing living with mindfulness.